MONROVIA – The House of Representatives has mandated its Joint Committees on Judiciary, Good Governance, and Ways, Means and Finance to review proposed legislations seeking the establishment of a War and Economic Crimes Court as well as a specialized National Anti-Corruption Court.
According to a statement published on the House’s official Facebook page, Plenary took the decision on Thursday, May 21, 2026, following a formal communication from President Joseph Nyuma Boakai requesting legislative consideration and passage of the two bills.
President Boakai described both proposed legislations as critical instruments for advancing justice, reconciliation, accountability, and sustainable national development in Liberia.
According to the President, the bills are intended to address longstanding recommendations of Liberia’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) while also fulfilling the country’s international legal obligations.
The Liberian leader emphasized that the proposed War and Economic Crimes Court would help confront the issue of impunity surrounding atrocities committed during Liberia’s civil conflicts.
He noted that the tribunal would exercise jurisdiction over war crimes, crimes against humanity, and related economic offenses committed during the country’s years of civil unrest.
President Boakai further explained that the establishment of a specialized National Anti-Corruption Court would significantly strengthen Liberia’s fight against corruption and improve efforts aimed at safeguarding public resources.
According to him, existing judicial mechanisms remain insufficient to effectively address widespread corruption and ensure greater transparency and accountability within government institutions.
The President urged lawmakers to carefully deliberate on the proposed measures and work toward their enactment, describing the bills as historic initiatives necessary for promoting peace, justice, good governance, and national renewal.
The proposed courts have remained subjects of intense national debate over the years, with advocates arguing that accountability for war-time atrocities and corruption is essential to lasting reconciliation and democratic stability in Liberia.
Supporters of the War and Economic Crimes Court have long maintained that establishing such a tribunal would provide justice for victims of Liberia’s civil wars and help end the culture of impunity.
Similarly, proponents of a specialized anti-corruption court believe a dedicated judicial mechanism would improve the prosecution of corruption-related offenses and strengthen public confidence in Liberia’s governance system.
The Joint Committees are now expected to review the proposed legislations and provide recommendations to Plenary for further legislative action.
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